HRD programme on Improved Technologies for Sustainable Crop Production Organised

16-17 February, 2026, Mohanpur

A two-day Human Resource Development Programme on ‘Improved Technologies for Sustainable Crop Production: Challenges and Opportunities’ was organised by the Director of Extension Education (DEE), Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya (BCKV), Mohanpur, in collaboration with ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata, for Heads, Subject Matter Specialists (SMSs) and Farm Managers of Krishi Vigyan Kendras across West Bengal. The programme covered key contemporary themes including digital agriculture in extension, farming amid escalating climate threats, organic crop production techniques, hydroponics and hi-tech horticulture, promotion of minor fruit crops, and advanced Pest Control 2.0 strategies.

Dr. Ashok Kumar Patra, Vice-Chancellor, BCKV, commended the organisers for successfully hosting this important HRD initiative for KVK scientists and highlighted its significance in strengthening rural development. He further emphasised the promotion of location-specific technologies in view of emerging climate change challenges to ensure resilient and sustainable agricultural growth.

Pradip Dey, Director, ICAR-ATARI, Kolkata, highlighted capacity building and sustainability as the twin pillars of agricultural transformation, enabling higher productivity alongside environmental harmony. He emphasised efficient resource use, technology-led extension, strong market linkages, and continuous farmer training as key drivers of agricultural excellence, while also advancing digital agriculture initiatives through platforms such as Kisan Sarathi and Bharat‑VISTAAR to strengthen knowledge delivery, real-time advisory services, and data-driven decision-making for farmers.

Dr. S.B. Goswami, Registrar, BCKV, deliberated on holistic crop management strategies aligned with present-day agricultural challenges.

Dr. Pallab Dutta, Director, DEE, BCKV, highlighted the importance of such programmes in strengthening the technical knowledge and field effectiveness of KVK personnel.

The programme was attended by 20 participants from KVKs across West Bengal, who actively engaged in technical deliberations and interactive sessions. Experts provided practical, field-oriented guidance on best management practices aimed at improving the quality, resilience, and profitability of farm production systems.

(Source: ICAR-Agricultural Technology Application Research Institute, Kolkata)